Lucky Legs

Function, not form, is what counts

I am prone to envy. I watch others walk without effort and think they are so lucky to have two legs to carry them wherever they want at varying speeds, including running. Walking alongside friends and loved ones has profound effects on your relationship, as does not being able to do so.

Lately, I’ve been hyper aware of the way the legs of others look and function. When two people are walking together, their legs automatically synchronize the speed at which they travel. Young legs look and are strong. I also notice legs that look useless as they sit in a wheelchair. I imagine the owners of these types of legs look at mine with envy. Some legs can balance and walk in heels. Athletes have super strong and coordinated legs.

When I was young and strong, I worried about how my legs looked. Maybe they were a little flabby. Maybe I had too much cellulite. They weren’t long. I am bowlegged. My skin is super white. So maybe my legs weren’t the most attractive, but they walked, ran, went skiing, danced, ice skated, hiked, walked on the beach, wore heels, did gymnastics, rode bikes, and more.

I haven’t been able to do any of those things since 1999 except for walk. I limp and carry a cane because of left leg weakness and a paralyzed left foot due to a severe stroke.

I have come to appreciate my legs for what they can do with less focus on how they look. I am fortunate to be able to walk at all. Envy will always be my enemy.

Thank you for reading :)